When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Guardian Games
Why Guardian Games is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Guardian Games, located in Portland, Oregon, stands as a premier destination for tabletop gaming enthusiasts and those seeking a vibrant, welcoming community space. Covering over 10,000 square feet, the store offers an impressive variety of board games, role-playing games (RPGs), miniatures, collectible card games (CCGs), dice, puzzles, and gaming books, creating a comprehensive haven for gamers of all levels and interests. It also features ample tournament space, allowing players to engage in competitive and casual gaming events year-round. Beyond the extensive gaming offerings, Guardian Games is equipped with a bar serving beer, wine, and mead, which adds to the social ambiance and makes it an excellent place to meet up and connect over shared passions. Situated conveniently near OMSI, the Morrison Bridge off-ramp, and public transit options, it provides easy access for both locals and visitors. The store's friendly and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience, ensuring every visitor receives personalized recommendations and assistance. Guardian Games has a strong emphasis on fostering local community, making it a lively and inclusive spot where friendships are forged through collaborative play and events. The blend of a vast game selection, spacious facilities, and a convivial atmosphere cements Guardian Games as a top choice for friends looking to enjoy tabletop gaming in Portland.
Here's what people think of Guardian Games
As of recent, Guardian Games holds a 4.7-star rating based on 3807 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise Guardian Games for its extensive game selection and spacious venue, which provides a unique environment unmatched by many other gaming stores. The store's large collection, spanning thousands of board games and various gaming accessories, is often highlighted as a standout feature, drawing gamers with diverse tastes. Positive reviews frequently mention the helpfulness and friendliness of the staff, noting that their knowledge and enthusiasm greatly enhance the shopping and gaming experience. Many appreciate the ability to reserve tables, including private rooms, which adds convenience and exclusivity for group gatherings. The presence of a bar serving adult beverages like beer, wine, and mead is also well-received, contributing to the social and welcoming vibe of the venue. However, some negative feedback points to concerns such as a restrictive return policy and reportedly significant price increases on certain products, which some customers feel diminish the value. Other reviewers occasionally express a desire for a full bar, which is currently not available. Despite these critiques, the overarching sentiment portrays Guardian Games as a beloved community hub with largely positive customer experiences. The reviews overall reflect a thriving space where game lovers can gather, enjoy a vast array of games, and feel part of an enthusiastic community, making Guardian Games a must-visit for Portland's tabletop gaming scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jenn Islam
Excellent selection of games!! They even have some demos available to try all throughout the store! They’ve got new, old, common and rare games. And a whole section for local designers. Hard to get to from right off the exit (gotta go immediately 3 lanes to the right) but other than that, great space and location near other things like smiths tea and Portland night market. Parking lot available but if full, street parking available nearby.
Dieter Zimmerman
Very pleasant, roomy environment. Snacks, drinks, and even beer available. Excellent selection items, especially if you're into board games or CCGs. Nice focused displays dedicated to local designers.
Sheila Hanson
We have never been to such a cool game store before. The amount of games you could try out was cool. Lots of tables to play at. Awesome selection and local makers too. The employees were very helpful, knowledgeable and super engaged with customers.
a s
DO NOT BUY POKEMON HERE. RESEALED BOX!!! I grabbed the last booster bundle of surging sparks for 44.99 (above MSRP). I should have immediately known it wasn’t right when the cellophane did not completely wrap the entire box. The sides of the box were sticking out unwrapped and the plastic appeared heat warped in multiple areas. I have purchased one of these before from a different game store on release day. It did not look like this AT ALL. I continued opening anyways as I thought guardian would never do this. Once I opened the box, the packs were facing the wrong way. They appear to have been cut at the bottom and resealed. (See picture). Packs felt like they had been handled already and were way too easy to open. They weren’t tight like a new pack. Typically, there’s a bit of tension on the adhesive on the back down the middle. These packs lacked any resistance when ripping and nearly tore completely. I’ve opened too many packs to count, it’s never this easy. Consider me not surprised when ZERO of these SIX packs contained an ex, illustration, or special energy. Just 6 suspicious holos. As someone that collects and is trying to complete this set, I have never had this happen in any Pokemon product. If I bought 6 single packs … maybe (again, unlikely ). I’ve never had a Booster be empty. Especially this expansion. Pokemon wants fans to keep buying, they know to include “ a hit “. Boosters are literally supposed to “boost” the deck. This did nothing. Don’t believe me ? Look at the copious amount of ripping videos of this same product. Nobody gets only holos or we’d hear about that being a problem. Disappointing. I liked coming here for their gear. Should have known better to buy from LGS with scalper prices.
SeanLuc Nauts
This is hands down the greatest local game store I've ever been to. The selection inside is mind blowing and extremely well organized. They had very rare games that were hard to find even online. The staff was extraordinarily welcoming and helpful giving many recommendations with detailed descriptions of each game and how they work, it was very clear the man I was talking to knew all about board games. I didn't have a chance to play anything from their expansive game wall or magic in their huge playing area. They seemed to also sell alcohol which is a huge bonus for some people. Overall this local game store is jaw dropping and i would recommend going out of your way to check this place out.
How to reach Guardian Games
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Why Guardian Games may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Guardian Games with your friends?
When it comes to gathering your friends or family for a meetup that guarantees fun, excitement, and a shared sense of community, Guardian Games in Portland stands out as an exceptional choice. With a remarkable rating of 4.7 from over 3,800 reviews, it has earned a reputation as one of the premier spots for gaming enthusiasts and casual gamers alike. What makes Guardian Games unique is that it’s not just a store, but an immersive destination designed to foster social interaction through games of all types and complexities. Imagine stepping into a spacious, vibrant environment where walls are lined with thousands of board games, LEGO sets, tabletop miniatures, and Dungeons & Dragons resources, inviting you and your group into countless hours of entertainment. The sheer scale of their collection—more than 30,000 titles—means that no matter the preferences or experience levels of your friends, there’s something perfect for everyone. Additionally, the helpful and knowledgeable staff elevate the experience, offering personalized recommendations and seamless support to ensure you find games that spark joy and challenge in equal measure. With comfortable seating and spaces to reserve in advance, including private rooms, Guardian Games makes organizing a group meetup effortless and fun. Their welcoming environment and community-driven ethos make it an ideal rallying point to connect, laugh, and make memories.
What kind of activities can you enjoy at Guardian Games?
Guardian Games offers a wide variety of activities that cater to all types of gaming interests, making it an excellent choice for group meetups. First and foremost, the board game selection is unparalleled. The left wall of the venue is covered with thousands of titles, ranging from classic favorites like Risk and Monopoly to modern strategy games and party games. This means groups can pick a game that matches their style, whether they want competitive strategic play or light-hearted social fun. Meanwhile, the right wall features an impressive array of LEGO kits, tabletop miniatures, and Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) supplies, catering to fans of creative construction, tactical combat, and role-playing adventures. For groups looking to dive into role-playing games, Guardian Games stands as a hub for D&D enthusiasts, offering resources and even hosting events that can enrich the experience.
Beyond retail, Guardian Games fosters an active community atmosphere by hosting regular gaming events and tournaments. These provide a fantastic opportunity for your group to test their skills against other gamers or simply enjoy cooperative gameplay in a lively, social setting. They also offer the ability to reserve tables and private rooms, allowing groups to gather in a dedicated space without distraction. This feature is especially valuable for larger groups wanting privacy or for celebrations. Plus, the venue has a 21+ area that serves adult non-alcoholic beverages, so adults can relax and enjoy their time without worrying about having to leave for refreshments. Altogether, these activities create a versatile, interactive environment ideal for building camaraderie and having fun across age groups and interests.
Why is Guardian Games the perfect place for group meetups?
Guardian Games is perfectly tailored for group meetups thanks to its spacious layout, variety of gaming options, and accommodating staff. The large venue ensures that even sizable groups can find ample seating and play comfortably without feeling crowded. The option to reserve spaces ahead of time removes the stress that often comes with organizing meetups, providing peace of mind that your group will have a spot ready upon arrival. The presence of private rooms further enhances the experience for those seeking an intimate setting to play complex games or celebrate special occasions in a controlled environment.
The extensive range of games ensures that every member of the group can find something they enjoy, whether they prefer board games, LEGO building, tabletop miniatures, or role-playing. This diversity is key when planning group activities, as it keeps the experience engaging and inclusive. Additionally, the knowledgeable and passionate staff play a crucial role in making Guardian Games a perfect meetup venue. They can guide new players through rules, suggest games that best fit your group’s size and interests, and even help customize your visit.
Furthermore, Guardian Games supports community interaction through its events. These gaming tournaments and themed nights provide a shared experience that goes beyond the games themselves, encouraging lively social engagement and fostering lasting friendships. The ambiance is both welcoming and energizing, balancing fun with focus in a way that keeps all participants enthusiastic about returning. For groups looking to combine entertainment, community, and a unique local experience, Guardian Games offers all these ingredients in one engaging, well-managed venue.
What makes the staff and community at Guardian Games special?
One of the standout features of Guardian Games is its friendly, knowledgeable staff who contribute significantly to the overall experience. Many reviews praise employees for their passion for gaming and their willingness to help customers find the perfect game or answer rules questions. This type of personalized service ensures that even newcomers to the gaming world feel comfortable and welcomed, which is especially important when bringing a diverse group of friends or family together.
The staff’s expertise covers a vast range of gaming genres and formats, enabling them to make tailored recommendations that cater to different skill levels and tastes. This dedication helps your group avoid the frustration of choosing unsuitable games and maximizes your fun time. Additionally, the staff members themselves participate actively in the local gaming community, helping to organize tournaments, events, and social gatherings that enrich the Guardian Games experience.
The community around Guardian Games is another key element. Many customers mention how the venue acts as a social hub for gamers in Portland, with a welcoming atmosphere where building connections comes naturally. Whether you’re a regular player or a first-time visitor, you’ll find others eager to share strategies, discuss gameplay, and make friends. This sense of belonging transforms group meetups from simple fun sessions into meaningful social events reinforced by shared interests.
How accessible and convenient is Guardian Games for a meetup?
Guardian Games is located in Portland with an address that’s easy to find, equipped to handle the needs of both casual visitors and committed gamers. The store boasts a clean, spacious layout that encourages ease of movement and comfort during long sessions. The availability of online reservations makes planning a meetup hassle-free, allowing groups to secure tables in advance and organize their agenda without last-minute surprises.
Their product offerings include not only traditional board and tabletop games but also collectible card games such as singles and cases of Magic: The Gathering cards, making it a comprehensive destination for gaming hobbies. Being able to purchase games on site means that after enjoying a game or two at the venue, groups can take home favorite discoveries to continue playing together.
For those hosting meetups that include different age groups or preferences, Guardian Games addresses this perfectly by allowing alcohol-free beverage services in an adult-focused section, balancing relaxation with the requirements of a family- or friend-friendly environment. Furthermore, the staff’s ability to quickly fulfill orders and offer good value ensures that meetups do not stall due to lack of supplies or services.
With its strategic location, efficient service, and welcoming space, Guardian Games is a top choice for organizing gatherings centered on gaming, socializing, and shared enjoyment.
What do visitors say about their experiences at Guardian Games?
Visitors to Guardian Games frequently rave about the immense selection of games and the welcoming atmosphere. Many reviews mention being overwhelmed positively by the sheer variety upon walking in, with some noting it as the best gaming store they’ve ever encountered. Guests appreciate the staff’s friendliness and knowledge, with stories of employees going above and beyond to help select games that match visitors’ preferences and explaining rules with enthusiasm.
Groups often highlight the ability to reserve tables or private rooms as a major plus, ensuring that they can enjoy uninterrupted playtime with friends or family. The fact that the venue hosts numerous events throughout the year adds to its appeal, providing regular reasons for customers to return and deepen their connection to the gaming community.
One frequent visitor summary is how Guardian Games is more than just a store—it feels like a community hub for gamers of all stripes, offering a chance to discover new games, meet others who share your passion, and make lasting memories with friends. This sentiment is echoed across hundreds of reviews, making Guardian Games a proven and beloved choice for group meetups.
With its outstanding rating, phenomenal game collection, expert staff, event hosting, and comfortable, inclusive space, Guardian Games provides an unmatched venue for friends and families to gather, play, and create joyful moments through gaming. Whether you’re planning a casual afternoon or a special event, this vibrant hub guarantees a socially enriching and fun-filled experience.